Parkinson's Disease Specialists in New York, NY

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive movement disorder characterized by limb tremors and muscle stiffness. The official cause is unknown, but the disease is triggered when the neurons that produce dopamine break down and die.

The disease can often lead to depression and other emotional changes. Sleep disorders are also common as are problems with bladder and constipation.

Preventing Parkinson's Disease

Because the cause of Parkinson's disease is unknown, there is no surefire way to prevent it. However, some have found that increasing caffeine intake, getting regular aerobic exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet can reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease.

The most common risk factors believed to be associated with Parkinson's disease include:

Family history of Parkinson's

Old age

Gender (men tend to be at greater risk)

Exposure to certain herbicides and pesticides

Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

Tremors in the hands and limbs

Muscle stiffness

Difficulty standing or walking

Impaired speech, sense of smell and sleep cycle

Parkinson's Disease Treatment

Because Parkinson's patients have low dopamine concentrations, treatment plans typically revolve around ways to increase or substitute dopamine. Directly administering dopamine is not an option as it is unable to enter the brain. This is why medications are used to increase dopamine levels by encouraging the production of dopamine within the brain. Physical exercise is also typically recommended to ease the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

A number of holistic treatments are available for those suffering from Parkinson's. These treatments include acupuncture, tai chi, yoga, and meditation. The Alexander technique, which uses a physical and mental approach to healthier muscle use, is also believed to relief Parkinson's symptoms.

Living with Parkinson's Disease

There is no set standard for the speed at which the disease progresses, although slow progression is not uncommon. Fortunately, modern medicine has made the challenges of living with Parkinson's disease more manageable. Parkinson's disease is not fatal, however severe symptoms can increase the frequency of accidents resulting in death such as falling. Request more information about Parkinson's disease today. Call (212) 262-2412 or contact Dr. David Borenstein online.